How to Know When Blue Cheese Is Bad?
The easiest way to know if blue cheese has gone bad is to look for visible signs of spoilage such as unusual mold growth beyond the blue veins, a slimy texture, or an ammonia-like odor. Discoloration and significant hardening can also indicate the cheese is no longer safe to eat.
A Deeper Look at Blue Cheese Degradation
Blue cheese, with its pungent aroma and distinctive blue or green veins, is a culinary delight for many. However, like all cheeses, it’s susceptible to spoilage. Understanding the nuances of blue cheese and its typical characteristics is crucial to accurately assessing its freshness and safety for consumption. Knowing the difference between expected mold and unwanted growth can save you from a potentially unpleasant and unhealthy experience.
The Allure and Biology of Blue Cheese
Blue cheese isn’t just any cheese. Its unique flavor profile stems from the intentional introduction of Penicillium molds during the cheesemaking process. These molds, typically Penicillium roqueforti or Penicillium glaucum, are responsible for the characteristic blue-green veins that run through the cheese, contributing to its sharp, salty, and sometimes even slightly sweet flavor.
- The cheese is typically made from cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, or goat’s milk.
- After the curd is formed, it’s pierced with needles to allow air to circulate, encouraging the mold to grow.
- The cheese is then aged in a controlled environment, allowing the mold to develop and impart its distinct flavor.
Recognizing the Signs of Spoilage: Beyond the Blue Veins
While Penicillium molds are a welcome component of blue cheese, other types of mold, bacteria, or improper storage can lead to spoilage. Here’s what to look for:
- Unusual Mold Growth: The presence of mold other than the Penicillium typically used is a major red flag. This might manifest as fuzzy, colored patches (black, orange, pink, or gray) on the surface or within the cheese. Never consume cheese with these types of mold.
- Slimy Texture: A slimy or sticky surface texture is a sign of bacterial growth and indicates spoilage. Healthy blue cheese should be slightly moist but never slimy.
- Ammonia-Like Odor: A strong ammonia smell is another indicator of decomposition. This is caused by the breakdown of proteins and is a clear sign the cheese is past its prime. A slight blue cheese smell is normal, but a pungent ammonia odor is not.
- Discoloration: Significant changes in color beyond the typical blue or green veining, such as yellowing or browning of the cheese itself, may indicate degradation.
- Hardening: While a slightly firm texture is normal, excessive hardening or dryness can indicate that the cheese has lost its moisture and flavor, and may also have become susceptible to spoilage.
Storage Tips to Extend Shelf Life
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of blue cheese. Follow these tips to maximize its shelf life:
- Wrap Properly: Once opened, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or beeswax wrap to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
- Store in the Refrigerator: Keep blue cheese refrigerated at a temperature between 35°F (2°C) and 40°F (4°C).
- Separate from Other Foods: Store the cheese away from strong-smelling foods to prevent it from absorbing unwanted odors.
- Use a Cheese Paper: Wrapping blue cheese in cheese paper and then placing it in a plastic bag allows the cheese to breathe and helps prevent it from drying out.
How Long Does Blue Cheese Last?
The shelf life of blue cheese depends on several factors, including the type of milk used, the cheesemaking process, and storage conditions.
| Type of Blue Cheese | Storage Conditions | Expected Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened | Refrigerated at 35-40°F (2-4°C) | 2-3 months beyond sell-by date |
| Opened | Refrigerated, properly wrapped | 2-3 weeks |
| Frozen | Properly wrapped, airtight container or freezer bag | Up to 6 months |
Note: Freezing can alter the texture of blue cheese, making it more crumbly. It’s best used in cooked dishes after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does healthy blue cheese smell like?
Healthy blue cheese has a pungent, salty, and sometimes slightly sweet aroma. The specific scent can vary depending on the type of milk used and the specific mold culture. However, it should never smell like ammonia or have an off-putting, rotten odor.
2. Can I cut off the moldy part of blue cheese and eat the rest?
No, it is not recommended to cut off moldy parts of blue cheese and eat the rest if the mold is not the intended Penicillium mold. Since blue cheese is porous, unwanted mold can penetrate deeper into the cheese than is visible. It is best to discard the entire piece to avoid potential health risks.
3. What happens if I eat bad blue cheese?
Eating spoiled blue cheese can lead to food poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the amount of contaminated cheese consumed. Consult a doctor if symptoms are severe.
4. How can I tell the difference between good mold and bad mold on blue cheese?
Good mold is blue-green or grayish-blue and is evenly distributed throughout the cheese. Bad mold can be any other color (e.g., black, orange, pink, green that looks different than the normal Penicillium mold) and often appears as fuzzy patches on the surface.
5. Is it safe to eat blue cheese that has darkened in color?
Slight darkening in color can be normal due to oxidation, but significant discoloration, especially yellowing or browning, can indicate spoilage. It’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the cheese if you are unsure.
6. How should I store blue cheese after opening?
After opening, wrap the blue cheese tightly in plastic wrap, beeswax wrap, or cheese paper. Store it in the refrigerator, away from strong-smelling foods.
7. Can blue cheese be frozen?
Yes, blue cheese can be frozen, but freezing may alter the texture, making it more crumbly. It is best to use frozen blue cheese in cooked dishes rather than eating it plain.
8. How long does unopened blue cheese last in the refrigerator?
Unopened blue cheese can typically last for 2-3 months beyond the sell-by date when stored properly in the refrigerator.
9. What does “sell-by” or “use-by” date mean on blue cheese packaging?
The “sell-by” date indicates the last day the store should sell the cheese. The “use-by” date suggests when the cheese will be at its best quality. In both cases, properly stored blue cheese may still be safe to eat after these dates, but its quality may decline.
10. What is the best way to thaw frozen blue cheese?
The best way to thaw frozen blue cheese is to transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly overnight.
11. Is it safe to eat blue cheese if it has developed a hard rind?
A hard rind on blue cheese indicates that it has dried out. While it might not necessarily be unsafe to eat, the flavor and texture will likely be compromised. Consider using it in cooked dishes where the texture is less important.
12. Can I get sick from eating too much blue cheese?
Eating too much blue cheese, even if it’s fresh, can cause digestive upset for some individuals due to its high fat content and strong flavor. It’s best to consume it in moderation. If it is contaminated, you can get sick regardless of how much you eat.